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Winchester 1876 question

gartmangartman Member Posts: 660 ✭✭✭
edited November 2013 in Ask the Experts
So I just got this rifle, #35699. Quite sure it is 45-75 by the apparent bore and chamber size, very crisp, but there is no evidence of ever having the caliber stamped on the barrel or elevator. Thought by this time they were all marked, or am I wrong.
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Comments

  • eastbankeastbank Member Posts: 4,052 ✭✭
    edited November -1
    my 76 is #35903 made in 1883 in 45-60 and the calibure is stamped on the elelvator. i think by 1883 they were marked as to calibure.the stamping is not very deep,could it be worn off? please ask moderator to explain himself AKA T.S. albert.
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  • Bert H.Bert H. Member Posts: 11,281 ✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    Hmmm...

    The serial number indicates that it was manufactured no earlier than August of 1883, and by that time, Winchester was marking the barrels and bronze elevators with the cartridge designation.

    I suspect that one of two things has happened; (1) the rifle has been refinished, or (2) the rifle has been rebuilt using older parts, or non factory original parts.

    WACA Historian & Life Member

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  • gartmangartman Member Posts: 660 ✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    Thanks for the opinions. Elevator is smooth as new with patina. Maybe too smooth, no dents or scratches. Barrel address is still clear but finish is blue/patina, maybe a very old re-blue. Action is is crisp.
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